In a remarkable journey spanning 37 fights, Kai Kara-France is set to compete for the UFC flyweight title this weekend against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 317 in Las Vegas. As he prepares for this pivotal moment, the 32-year-old Kiwi fighter is eager to join the ranks of New Zealand’s sporting heroes, alongside UFC champion Israel Adesanya. Notably, a victory would make Kara-France the first New Zealand-born champion of Māori descent.
Kara-France’s path has been filled with both challenges and triumphs, including unique experiences like fighting on a cruise ship. Reflecting on that experience, he recalled it being the first international fight held on a cruise, which was a blend of business and pleasure. “I knew I had a fight, like I was there for business and then I could have a holiday after,” he said, highlighting the memorable nature of that event.
His professional journey began in Auckland, where Kara-France quickly made a name for himself with his explosive “Don’t Blink” knockouts. However, to fulfill his ambition of success in mixed martial arts, he moved to Thailand in his teenage years. “It was definitely hard moving overseas…I had to get out of my comfort zone,” he reflected, noting that this transition was crucial for his growth both as a fighter and as a person.
Kara-France’s career has not been without setbacks. He has faced tough losses, including an interim title fight against Brandon Moreno in 2022. Yet, each defeat has proven a valuable learning experience, allowing him to refine his skills under the guidance of his coach Eugene Bareman at City Kickboxing. Bareman praised Kara-France’s dedication and quiet determination saying, “he’s still that same kind of character, quietly unassuming and hardworking.”
As he prepares for the championship bout, Kara-France is also embracing his Māori heritage. His interest in his culture has been further fueled by his family’s support, particularly from his wife, Chardae, who is a fluent speaker of Te Reo Māori. This connection to his roots motivates him both inside the Octagon and in his personal life as he strives to pass on the language to his children.
Kara-France’s upcoming fight against Pantoja brings a sense of nostalgia, as they previously competed against each other on “The Ultimate Fighter” nine years ago. While Pantoja emerged victorious in that contest, Kara-France has grown tremendously since then. “I’ve done all the work at training leading into this. I’ve seen it all. I felt it all,” he stated, demonstrating his confidence.
If successful, Kara-France will etch his name into the annals of New Zealand sports history, making this fight not only about the title but about fulfilling a lifelong dream. As he looks towards this crucial match, he emphasizes a determined mindset. “Just go in there, be very intentional and go for the finish. So I’m excited, because I’m ready for it,” he concluded, embodying the spirit of resilience that has characterized his career.
This upcoming title fight could become a defining moment in Kara-France’s career and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in New Zealand and beyond.